Effects of Modifying Orthodontic Adhesive by Thymus Vulgaris and Lavandula Angustifolia Essential Oils on Compressive Strength

Aims: The aims of the current study were to investigated and compared the effects of different concentrations of Thymus vulgaris and Lavandula angustifolia essential oils incorporated in orthodontic adhesive on compressive strength. Materials and Methods: Thirty samples were prepared to be included in the study groups. They were constructed from cylinders of 6 mm in height and 4 mm in diameter for each one. The adhesive samples were modified by incorporating 1%, 3% of Thymus vulgaris and 1%, 3% Lavandula angustifolia essential oils separately. After curing of the modified adhesive, each sample was placed in a universal testing machine between its plate and arm that has a capacity of 1000 kN. The compressive strength was tested by using a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. The force of the machine was delivered perpendicularly to the composite samples by a plate producing a compressive force on the sample. The applied force at fracture time was recorded in Newton, then it was converted into mega Pascal (MP) by dividing the applied force by the surface area of the composite samples. The data were statistically analysed at p